CategorySexual Ethics

What does the Bible teach about homosexuality? Five critical questions

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In the past couple of months I have found myself involved in many discussions around a biblical approach to same-sex relationships. Not only is our Parliament to debate same-sex marriage, but some prominent Christian leaders, including Steve Chalke, Tony Campolo, and ethicist David Gushee have called for the church to change its mind on homosexuality. At the moment those calling for a change are...

Same sex marriage and the failure of evangelical ethics

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I was out for dinner this week when someone wondered whether in 20 years time gay couples will be welcomed and affirmed in our churches and whether we will be as embarrassed by our present opposition to gay relationships as we are that Christians once argued in support of slavery, racial segregation, and female subordination? If history is anything to go by, rightly or wrongly, I think the answer...

A 17th Century Baptist Speaks To Us About Marriage Equality

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Opposition leader Bill Shorten has announced he will introduce a private members bill legislating for marriage equality.  As we consider this I think we have something to learn from the 17th century Baptist leader Thomas Helwys, who issued the first call for religious freedom written in the English language. “For we do freely profess that our lord the king has no more power over their consciences...

If pornography is so bad,
why does the Bible give us the Song of Songs?

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Christianity has a reputation for being prudish about sexual desire. Yet the Old Testament contains an extended erotic love poem in which two lovers anticipate their lovemaking. From the outset it is dripping with sexual desire: “Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth–for your love is more delightful than wine… Take me away with you – let us hurry! Let the King bring me into his...

Why Churches Should Be a Safe Place for LGBT Oriented People to Come Out

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Young people who are same-sex attracted (SSA) experience victimisation, harassment and abuse because of their sexual identity. Those who are open about their sexuality frequently experience abuse and rejection by family and friends. Consequently they do not feel safe about ‘coming-out’ and instead prefer to keep their feelings hidden. This silence can lead to self-harming behaviours including...

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